What Is Syphilis?
Syphilis is a sexually transmitted infection (STI) caused by the bacterium Treponema pallidum. It progresses in stages and can affect many parts of the body if left untreated.
Early detection and treatment are crucial, as untreated syphilis can lead to serious complications affecting the heart, brain, and nervous system.
What Causes Syphilis?
Syphilis is spread through:
- Vaginal, anal, or oral sex with an infected person
- Direct contact with a syphilitic sore (chancre)
- From mother to baby during pregnancy (congenital syphilis)
What Are the Common Symptoms of Syphilis?
Symptoms vary depending on the stage:
Primary Stage:
- Painless sore (chancre) at the site of infection
- Often unnoticed, heals within 3–6 weeks
Secondary Stage:
- Skin rash, often on palms or soles
- Fever, fatigue, sore throat
- Swollen lymph nodes
- Patchy hair loss
Latent Stage:
- No symptoms, infection persists in the body
Tertiary Stage (rare if untreated):
- Serious complications affecting the heart, brain, or other organs
How Is Syphilis Diagnosed?
Diagnosis is usually through:
- Blood tests to detect antibodies
- Swabs from sores if present
Online GP consultations can arrange testing and provide advice on next steps. In-person evaluation may be needed for accurate testing or if symptoms suggest advanced disease.
How Long Does Syphilis Last?
- Symptoms in early stages may resolve even without treatment
- Untreated infection can persist for years and progress to severe complications
- Antibiotic treatment can fully cure the infection if given in time
Is Syphilis Contagious?
Yes. Syphilis is highly contagious during primary and secondary stages and can be transmitted through sexual contact or from mother to baby.
How to Feel Better and Recover Quickly
Self-Care at Home:
- Avoid sexual activity until treatment is complete
- Inform recent sexual partners to prevent further spread
- Attend all follow-up testing appointments
Treatment from a GP:
- Antibiotic treatment, usually a course of intramuscular penicillin
- Monitoring for response to treatment
- Screening for other STIs
When Referral Is Needed:
- Signs of advanced disease or neurological involvement
- Allergy to first-line antibiotics
- Persistent infection after treatment
When to Seek Urgent Medical Help
Seek urgent care if:
- Neurological symptoms (headache, vision changes, numbness)
- Chest pain or shortness of breath
- Suspected congenital syphilis in newborns
- Severe rash with systemic symptoms
How Dr.Online UK Can Help
We offer:
- Same-day online GP appointments
- Assessment, testing, and treatment for syphilis
- Private prescriptions for antibiotics if appropriate
- Advice on partner notification and prevention
